Tomioka Hachiman Tekomai Geisha 富岡八幡の手古舞

Tekomai geisha. Their costume is colorful and partially masculine with trousers instead of skirts. Their right shoulder is "exposed" to show a peony flower (botan) design. They carry a red paper lantern imprinted with their names.

Tekomai geisha. They existed since the Edo Period. They served as side entertainment at festivals. They only sing traditional chant-like songs called kiyari. 手古舞

This troupe of 25 local women preserve a traditional art of Edo. They attend regular singing practice led by an elderly woman who was an authentic tekomai in her day.

Tekomai geisha from Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine walk toward the stage.

They perform in mid-Oct. on the same day and place as Kiba Kakunori log rolling.

Their right shoulder is "exposed" to show a peony flower design. Also see the video at YouTube.

They carry a red paper lantern imprinted with their names and use their right hand to drag along a metal wand.

Tomioka Hachiman Tekomai geisha perform at Kiba Park.

They only chant, no dancing.

Tomioka Hachiman tekomai geisha

Tomioka Hachiman tekomai geisha

Tekomai geisha at Eitai-bashi

During the finale, the tekomai and Kiba Kiyari singers sing together.

Tekomai geisha

They sing and chant while walking slowly.

They have flower hats, but I've never seen them wear it on their heads.